12 Delightful Things To Do In Donegal Ireland

If you are planning a trip to Ireland then you do not want to miss out on these things to do in Donegal. Donegal is truly a must see place to add to your Ireland road trip itinerary. 

Situated along the northern-most section of the Wild Atlantic Way, a road winding up through some of the most breathtaking coastal views in Ireland, Donegal is everything that you imagine Ireland to be. 

If you are more interested in quaint Irish villages, or ancient castles, there are plenty. If you do not know which things to do in Donegal then this is the place to find ideas.

How to get to Donegal? You can fly in to Dublin, Galway, or Belfast and then rent a car or charter a tour bus to get up to remote, rugged, and beautiful Donegal. 

12 Delightful Things To Do In Donegal Ireland

Bunbeg Beach Shipwreck

Magherclogher Beach in Bunbeg Village is home to a shipwreck that has become a worldwide tourist attraction. If you are planning a trip to Donegal, Ireland you must stop here! 

Since the wreck took place in the 1970’s boat has remained on the shore and become a must-see feature in Donegal, particularly for photographers. 

Besides the epic shipwreck itself another perk of this location is Mount Errigal in the background. If you are looking towards the town you can see it rising up behind the village. This one of the most unique things to do in Donegal, especially if you love pirates and high seas adventures. 

Malin Head

The most Northerly point of Ireland is the area known as Malin Head. This rugged and unspoiled stretch of coastline is one of the main tourist attractions in Donegal.

No first time to Donegal is complete without a stop at Malin head! This is one of the best things to do for adults in Donegal. 

There are many things to see and do in this area; from coastal walks along the Inishowen Peninsula, to wildlife viewing, photography opportunities, rare rock and flora to spot, as well as charming local pubs and shops.

Slieve League Cliffs 

These incredible cliffs, towering 1955ft above the sea below, are less crowded than the more famous Cliffs of Moher. They are almost 3 times as high and one of the best things to see in Donegal. 

If you are looking for things to do in Donegal that involve breathtaking views, this is it. Although there is a drive-up viewpoint to truly experience the magnificence of those cliffs you will want to hike along their path. Take One Man’s Path to reach the highest point of Slieve League Cliffs, or for a less strenuous hike hop on Pilgrim’s Path.

Starting at the Slieve League Cliffs Center you can book a guided tour that will include geological and wildlife information, as well as some fun stories.  

For other incredible hikes in Ireland head over to my article Best Hikes in Ireland.

Kinnagoe Bay

If secluded beaches are on your list of things to do in Donegal then this entry is for you. Along the Inishowen 100 scenic route, this beach has a small parking lot at the bottom of a winding road. While July and August see it fill up frequently, you will have fewer people competing for parking spaces the rest of the year. 

This beach is known for a historic shipwreck in 1588. The Spanish Armada, while retreating from England, crashed many of their ships into the Irish coast during a storm. La Trinidad Valencera crashed here and there is now a plaque commemorating the wreck.

Dunlewey Ruins in Poisoned Glen

Doe Castle

Tory Island

Just 9 miles off the coast of Ireland is this incredibly picturesque island. But the beauty of the land and seascapes are not the only reason that this is one of the most amazing things to do in Donegal, going to Tory Island is like stepping back in time.

Here the island’s residents still speak Irish as the primary language and are dedicated to preserving authentic Irish island culture. 

To get to Tory Island you have to take a ferry from the mainland. Ferries run every day of the year, weather permitting, and you can make it a day trip by returning the mainland the same day, or you can stay in one of the islands quaint bed and breakfasts to experience what life it like on the island.

The best way to take in all the island has to offer is to rent a bicycle to ride around the small 1.8 square mile island.

Some other things to take in on Tory Island are the Big Key, a rock formation with tall spires jutting out into the sea and the Bell Tower, built in the 7th century as part of a monastery.

Glenevin Waterfall

The trek to this beautiful 30 foot waterfall is only half a mile in length.

On the trail you will crisscross back and forth over the  burbling stream. You can choose to navigate the stream by walking along the wooden footbridges or the well placed stepping stones.

The trail is well marked and an overall easy hike with a slight upward grade the whole way to the falls. There are also several picnic areas along the way if you want to pack some food and really enjoy the scenery. 

If you would rather not carry the extra weight of your own picnic with you then stop by the Glen House Tea Rooms near the trail-head on your way in or out.

If you enjoy this hike to see this refreshing waterfall then look into some more beautiful waterfalls in Ireland.

Surfing the Donegal Coast

When you think of what to do in Donegal surfing is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. However, you may be surprised to learn Ireland is world renowned surf destination.  

Bundoran in County Donegal is the surf capital of Ireland. It is the perfect place to catch some waves. Surfing is known as one of the best activities in Donegal.

From beginner to expert there is something for all levels of surfers. If you are looking to learn there are also several surf schools where you can have a lesson with an instructor.

For those who are more experienced Bundoran consistently has large waves coming in from the wild waters of the Atlantic. Be careful because it is a reef break, not a beach.

For those who know how to surf, but need something a little less intense, Tullan Strand or Rossnowlagh have more manageable waves. 

Make sure to bring weather-appropriate clothes. Even in the summer months the water in Ireland is going to be cold!

The Fairy Bridges

Geological wonders are everywhere in Ireland. One wonder you should not miss are Donegal’s Fairy Bridges. This is one of the best things to do with kids in Donegal! 

These natural bridges are widely considered the earliest tourist attraction in Donegal around the early 1800’s. They have become more of a hidden gem in more recent times.

Stop by the tourist center for a map of the area as well as information on why these are named Fairy Bridges. From there it is a little over a mile walk along Roguey Way, and there are signs to point you in the right direction.

While you are out at the bridges also take some time to stop at the Wishing Chair. Make sure you follow the directions carefully, otherwise your wish will not come true!

Grianán of Aileach

Grianán of Aileach is hands down one of the best places to visit in Donegal!

Glenveagh Castle and National Park

When visiting Donegal Ireland you should really visit the island’s Northmost National Park. This remote gem has a native oak wood, waterfalls, glens, mountains, and of course a stunning castle.

Don’t miss out on this final entry on my list of the best things to do in Donegal. 

The epic castle gardens include a unique gothic orangery, a sweeping Italian terrace, and a winding Tuscan style garden. 

Add this castle to your itinerary in case you need things to do in Donegal in the rain. The castle has an audiovisual room and self guided tours. It also features an incredible tearoom to wait out the storm in. Glenveagh Castle is such a special retreat from the world that it has hosted the likes of Marilyn Monroe and John Wayne!

Now that you know what to do in Donegal here are some places you can stay:

At Slieve League House B&B you will enjoy views of the cliffs and the mountains in the distance.  Check Rates: Booking.com